Jobs in the healthcare industry are among the most popular with employers because of their flexibility. The industry offers numerous opportunities for professionals to utilise their skills in diverse situations, all while saving lives. These unique roles are essential in delivering patients and other healthcare professionals with the necessary expertise and support. Health For Mzansi looks at rare occupations in the medical industry that you may not have thought of.
Perfusionist
Perfusion is the physiological process by which fluids, such as blood and lymph, flow through the tissues of the body.
Perfusionists are professionals who receive training to operate heart-lung machines during open-heart surgery. They frequently operate ancillary devices, such as the cell saver machine and intra-aortic balloon pump. The requirements for entry and degree training for perfusionists are diverse.
A perfusionist collaborates with the surgical team to provide care for people who are undergoing a heart procedure. Perfusionists are responsible for operating equipment that can temporarily replace or assist the heart and lungs from outside the body.
The University of Cape Town offers enrollment for perfusion studies.
Pedorthics
Pedorthics is the management and treatment of foot, ankle, and lower extremity disorders that necessitate the fitting, production, and adjustment of pedorthics devices. Pedorthics is a field that utilises footwear to relieve and manage foot-related issues.
A pedorthist specialises in managing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. They are skilled in fitting, fabricating, and adjusting pedorthics devices to provide the best possible treatment for their patients.
Foot problems are common among many people, varying from calluses to severe conditions that may require hospitalisation. A pedorthist can provide conservative treatment for these issues by creating or modifying footwear as part of a treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. Surgery is not necessary in these cases.
Health informatics specialist
Health informatics specialists are healthcare professionals who assist in the translation of medical records into usable data for electronic record-keeping systems for patients. This tool assists healthcare professionals in locating patient treatment records, insurance details, medical histories, and other relevant information.
Their objective is to enhance the standard of patient care by scrutinising data gathered by healthcare institutions.
Health informatics specialists commonly work in hospitals, where they offer technical support to the staff, oversee the security of the hospital’s computer network and databases, provide analysis, and assist in the development of policies and procedures.
The University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg specialises in this field of study.
Trichology
A trichologist specialises in conditions or issues concerning the hair and scalp, along with their corresponding treatments.
The term “trichology” originates from the Greek word “Trikhos,” which specifically refers to hair. Trichologists, while not medical doctors are qualified to provide guidance to individuals experiencing hair-related issues, including scalp conditions and hair loss.
Becoming a trichologist requires specialised training and expertise in dermatology. It is advisable to obtain a medical degree in dermatology prior to pursuing a certification in trichology.
The University of Cape Town has enrollment opportunities available in South Africa as of 2016.
Gerontology
Gerontology is a field of study that examines various aspects of ageing, including social, cultural, psychological, cognitive, and biological factors. Gerontologists are essential in enhancing the quality of life and advocating for the well-being of older adults. They not only conduct research but also practice and study interdisciplinary knowledge related to the ageing process.
The fundamental skill or attribute necessary for a job that involves working with individuals in vulnerable situations is essential. To be helpful, you should be open to listening and willing to provide assistance whenever it is required.
For more information on rare medical careers, contact your nearest university:
UKZN, North West University, Stellenbosch, University of the Witwatersrand, University of the Western Cape, University of Pretoria, University of Limpopo, University of South Africa, and University of the Free State.
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